The challenges of designing a NRVU-BVU for energy efficiency and enhanced IAQ

Directive 2009/125/EC establishes a framework for the setting of Ecodesign requirements for energy- using products. 'Many products have a significant potential for being improved in order to reduce environmental impacts and to achieve energy savings through better design which also leads to economic savings for businesses and end-users’ [1]. Commission Regulation (EU) No 1253/2014, also known as Ecodesign directive 1253/2014/EC, applies to ventilation units and establishes ecodesign requirements for placing on the market or putting into service. The ecodesign requirements should be introduced gradually in order to provide a sufficient timeframe for manufacturers to re-design products subject to said regulation. This discussion paper highlights the practical challenges of designing a compliant non-residential bidirectional ventilation unit (NRVU-BVU) with the aim of improving energy efficiency whilst enhancing indoor air quality and discusses potential options to meet or exceed the requirements. (paper)